Since the UK Timber Frame Association (UKTFA) was launched in January 2002 it has grown to more than 50 manufacturing and 90 supply chain members – representing more than 80% of UK timber frame manufacture.
At its first AGM on May 15 chairman Steve Hutchinson commended the commitment from members and their hard work on the various UKTFA committees.
He also spoke of the tremendous support the association has had from wood. for good, thanking in particular its managing director Charles Trevor.
UKTFA chief executive Bryan Woodley reported that the association was financially sound and said that it took forward timber frame as a mainstream method of construction throughout the UK to the benefit of the complete supply chain, the construction industry, the environment and society.
UKTFA had also successfully established a high profile with other construction industry bodies and government departments.
Mr Woodley described 2002 as “a year of new beginnings”. He said committees were established and key projects heading for completion included a health and safety booklet; a timber frame training CD; and a pocket guide to timber frame for site staff.
Literature had also been produced including technical guidance on Building Regulation Parts L, J, and F and a free consumer booklet “Timber Frame – The Choice is Yours”.
Other important innovations are the introduction of a two-level, independently assessed quality scheme, Q-mark and Q-mark Plus, and the launch of a technical helpline.
Looking to the future, Mr Woodley said UKTFA expected to publish Technical Guidance on Part E by early summer; that work was under way on the implications of Eurocode 5 and CE marking for the industry; that UKTFA was formulating an environmental policy; that technical datasheets were to be created; and that the latest specialist grouping to be formed within UKTFA was the Insulation Suppliers Forum.
